The Twelve Birds of Christmas

As Christmas approaches, many of us dive into all the festive traditions. Among these traditions, the song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ holds a special place and features in most school plays and pantomimes. What often goes unnoticed though is the avian diversity nestled in the lyrics. For birders, the twelve days reveal a fascinating range of birds, each with its unique characteristics and cultural significance.

In this blog, we will explore the feathered cast from ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’, delving into their habitats, behaviors, and the festive symbolism.

‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ likely originated in England during the 16th century but it’s exact authorship is uncertain. The song’s lyrics describe a series of increasingly lavish gifts, which are given on each of the twelve days of Christmas. Within this whimsical narrative, we find a mixture of real birds and metaphorical gifts.

The first gift, a partridge in a pear tree, sets the stage for the bird-theme of the song. The partridge, a member of the pheasant family, is often associated with the beauty of rural England.

This medium-sized bird has a distinctive grayish-brown plumage, featuring a striking orange face. Partridges typically inhabit grasslands, farmland, and areas with low vegetation. They are often found in small coveys, supporting each other in foraging and evading predators.

In the context of Christmas, the partridge’s presence is often interpreted as a symbol of self-sacrifice. Mother partridge pretends to be injured to draw predators away from their young. This behaviour is a heartwarming parallel to parental love during the holiday season.

Day 2: Two Turtle Doves

The second day of Christmas introduces the Turtle Dove, a symbol of love and fidelity. Turtle Doves make soft cooing sounds and have gentle nature. They are a representation of devotion, making them a perfect fit for the theme of romance during the festive season.

The Turtle Dove has an orangey-brown and black patterned back and a blue-grey head. There are three or four black and white stripes on the side of its neck. They prefer woodlands and open fields where they can find seeds and berries. Known to be monogamous, they pair for life and this echos the song’s theme of love.

As a cultural symbol, Turtle Doves have been linked with peace and love for centuries. Their presence shows the importance of the bonds we cherish during the holiday season.

The french hen is a domestic chicken that’s often considered a nod to the traditions of feasting and agriculture. While the exact breed of hen is not specified, the term generally refers to breeds like the Marans or Cochin.

French hens vary in appearance, with beautiful plumage, and are typically raised where they can roam freely. They are known for their friendly dispositions and playfulness.

The three french hens signify the importance of nourishment and sustenance in our lives, especially at Christmas. They remind us of the importance of community and sharing.

Day 4: Four Calling Birds

The fourth gift introduces the calling birds, which are commonly interpreted as Blackbirds.

Male blackbirds are are entirely black, with a yellow bill and yellow ring around the eye. Females are dark brown, with streaking on the chest and throat. They are a commonly seen in gardens, parks and woodlands across the UK.

The calling birds represent the gift of song and communication. In the context of Christmas, they remind us of the importance of sharing our stories and celebrating with loved ones.

While the five gold rings don’t refer to a specific bird, they underline the value and beauty of birds. This gift can be connected metaphorically to birds that shine and dazzle, like the Goldfinch.

Goldfinches are small, vibrant birds with a brilliant golden colour, especially the males during summer. They inhabit open fields, gardens, and areas where they can find seeds to feed on. 

The goldfinch symbolises wealth and prosperity. It’s presence encourages birdwatchers to appreciate the beauty of nature and the rare moments of peace and fulfilment that it brings. What better way to celebrate the fifth day than by recognising the shimmering beauty of Goldfinches?

The sixth gift features the familiar Goose, traditionally regarded as an important agricultural bird. Geese, particularly the Domestic Goose, are known for their ability to lay lots of eggs.

Characteristics and Habitat

Domesticated geese come in several breeds, each with unique traits. They are predominantly found near water sources, making them excellent foragers. Known for their strong family bonds and protective nature, geese are often seen traveling in V-shaped formations.

Geese represent fertility and abundance. Their prolific egg-laying reminds us of the abundance during Christmas. It invites us to reflect on our blessings. It also highlights the importance of sharing with others.

The seventh gift showcases the majestic Swan, a bird often associated with grace and beauty. The Mute Swan is a particularly good example of elegance in water.

Swans are large waterfowl cherished for their striking white plumage and graceful movements. They thrive in freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes where they graze on aquatic plants. Swans are known for their strong pair bonds. They often glide across the water in perfect synchrony, a stunning sight for any birder.

Swans symbolise lasting love and deep connection. Their beauty makes us look on love’s power and the connections we cherish most, especially during Christmas.

Day 8: Eight Maids a-Milking

The eighth gift allures to women in agriculture and the daily chore of milking cows. While not directly related to birds, this day reflects on the role of birds on the farm. Barn Owls are a good example because they are a natural pest controller.

Barn owls are known for their heart-shaped faces, silent flight, and distinctive screech. They inhabit barns, old buildings, and open fields, where they hunt for small mammals.

The connection between farm life and natural ecosystems is vital. The Barn Owl reflects the harmony between agriculture and the natural world. They remind us that cooperation necessary to sustain our communities.

Day 9: Nine Ladies Dancing

This set of gifts can represent birds that embody grace and beauty. Birds renowned for their stunning visuals, Great Crested Grebes, are a good example.

During the breeding season, the Great Crested Grebe has an impressive plume on its head and orange ruff around its neck. They can be found on lakes and reservoirs around the U.K. Their includes ‘dancing’ – synchronised swimming, preening and fanning out their ruff.

Symbolism

Dance is an expression of joy and celebration. The presence of dancing birds evokes feelings of vitality and happiness, encouraging us to sock-up the festive spirit.

Ten lords a-leaping celebrate birds like the Peregrine Falcon, known for it’s grace and agility in flight.

The peregrine is dark slate-grey above and white below, with black bars across its chest and belly. They mainly nests in North and South West England, Wales and Scotland on coastal cliffs.

Symbolism

Peregrines symbolise strength, determination, and the joy of movement. As we witness birds in flight, we are reminded of the freedom that comes with the holiday season.

Day 11: Eleven Pipers Piping

Birds that are known for their ability to communicate can metaphorically represent this gift. The Robin, with its melodic songs and lively presence, is a great example.

Characteristics and Habitat

The Robin adapts well to urban environments and can be found in yards, parks, and wooded areas – always singing its cheerful tunes.

The connection between music and birdsong highlights the power of communication. It reminds us of the importance of sharing our thoughts and feelings with loved ones during the holidays.

Day 12: Twelve Drummers Drumming

Lastly, the drummers take centre stage and signify a festive celebration. The Jay is a good example of a bird that takes centre stage during Christmas-time.

Jays are recognised for their striking blue plumage and diverse vocalisations. They can be found over most of the U.K. but are absent from the north of Scotland.

Drumming can symbolise the heartbeat of the season, a rhythmic reminder of the life we celebrate during Christmas. These clever birds represent adaptation and urge us to embrace new beginnings – all while drumming up excitement and festivity.

‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ offers a rich tapestry of bird life intertwined with cultural significance. Each bird is a reminder of the beauty of nature and the connections we share. As birders, let’s reflect upon these species, appreciating their roles within our ecosystems and the joy they bring us.

May our birding inspire connections with family and friends and encourage us to spend time outdoors. This Christmas, let each gift bring to mind the wonder of feathers, songs, and the miracles the natural world has to offer.